Symbolism of Koi Fish

Koi is popular type of
freshwater fish which is often used as a garden ornament. It is a domesticated
variety of wild carp selectively bred to obtain diversity in colors and
patterns. Their undeniable beauty, mesmerizing colors and ability to easily
adapt to pond environments captivated lots of people around the world. It is
believed that it arrived in Japan during the 8th century and since
then it became an important part of their culture. The symbolism of koi fish has been highly recognized by the Japanese.
The wild carp or ‘Nishikigoi’ as they call it signifies strength,
perseverance and bravery while its whiskers stand for wisdom.

Some say that the wild
carp was originally from China. A Chinese legend about a mythical koi surpassing
the heavy current of the Dragon Gate waterfalls became a strong basis for its present
representation. The tale talks about how it bravely climbed up against the
stream and after surmounting all the odds it magically transformed into a
dragon symbolizing advancement and aspiration.

Ghostly Koi

Koi - Masculinity - Strength - Fearless

It also became a hit
design in horimono tattoos connoting masculinity. A true man shows no fear and
faces challenges with courage and strength just like how the koi strongly
conquered the Dragon Gate waterfalls. It is believed that the fearless carp
gracefully embraces its fate when held captive by the fisherman. It simply lies
on the cutting board as if awaiting its death without struggling. It is a
similar trait seen with Samurai warriors who would rather choose to do the honor
of taking their own lives than be a captive of their opponent. This is why its
unrelenting acts of valor have always been compared to a samurai warrior.

Koi Tattoos

Keeping Koi is Sure to Bring You Luck

The Koi Also Symbolizes Success and Wealth

Chinese people always associate
it with success and wealth. They believe that fish serves as lucky charms which
can bring them good fortune. A koi fish
swimming against the current symbolizes overcoming adversity through patience
and perseverance. Most people are inspired by the tale of the legendary koi because
it gives them hope that amidst all the trials and difficulties, there is always
light at the end of the tunnel.

The direction to where it
is facing has also been given its own meaning and interpretation. Japanese
believe that a carp swimming downwards signifies the struggles of overcoming
difficulties and hardships. But once it starts swimming upwards it means that the
trials have already been subjugated.

The strength of
character, perseverance and acts of fearlessness are the symbolism of koi fish which will always give hope and inspiration
to those who are starting to lose their faith after being bombarded by
countless trials and adversities. They say that fish have the power to alter
the state of mind allowing your imagination to overpower you capturing all your
hidden aspirations in life.